druid
|dru-id|
/ˈdruːɪd/, /ˈdruːəd/
oak-knower; Celtic priest
Etymology
'druid' originates from Old Irish, specifically the word 'druí', where 'dru-' meant 'oak' and '*wid' (from Proto-Celtic) meant 'to know' or 'to see'.
'druid' changed from the Old Irish word 'druí' and appears in Latin as 'druides' (used by Roman writers); through Medieval and Middle English usage it eventually became the modern English word 'druid'.
Initially, it meant 'oak-knower' or 'oak-seer' (one associated with oaks and with knowledge/vision); over time it evolved to mean specifically 'a member of the priestly class among ancient Celts' and later also 'a modern practitioner of Druidry'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of the priestly, learned class among the ancient Celts, often functioning as a priest, legal authority, lore-keeper, or philosopher.
The druid acted as both a spiritual leader and judge within his tribe.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a modern adherent or practitioner of Druidry (a neo-pagan spiritual movement inspired by ancient Celtic practices).
She became a druid after studying Druidry and Celtic traditions.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/08 10:40